Kiveton and Wales: A Guardian Rose for talented Nick

Praise has flooded in for a hardworking Kiveton hairdresser who sacrifices most of his spare time to keeping the tradition of panto alive in the local community.

Nick Challenger, who lives in Killamarsh, was presented with a Guardian Rose for his tireless efforts directing Wales Methodist Panto Players, a theatre company which has been running in the area since 1944.

When Nick isn’t busy transforming clients at his bustling Kiveton salon Nicholas James, you can usually find him directing and treading the boards for both the Wales Methodist Panto Players and Wales Musical Theatre Company.

Nick played Dame Trot in the Panto Players’ latest production of Jack and the Beanstalk, delighting audiences by appearing on stage in no less than 17 outrageous outfits.

The 70th anniversary show enjoyed roaring success during its run at the Montgomery Theatre at the beginning of January, with panto-goers attending from all over South Yorkshire.

There is little time to spare however, with rehearsals soon commencing for the company’s highly aniticipated 2016 production.

Rachel Habergham, a friend who contacted the Guardian to nominate Nick for his work, said, “I nominate Nick on behalf of Wales Panto Players for contiuing a fantastic tradition.”

“Not only does he appear on stage, he does a lot of work behind the scenes to allow so many people from the community to get involved with the shows.”

Nick said: “I’ve been with the Wales Panto Players for 20 years and became their director four years ago.”

“It’s great to be given the rose- very emotional!”

The first Wales Player’s pantomine cast was made up of evacuees from Brighton- whereas cast members today hail from Kiveton and Wales.

Visit the Wales Methodist Panto Players Facebook Page for updates and details on their upcoming 2016 production of Aladdin.

Our beautiful Guardian Roses are generously donated by Walkers House of Flowers in the Priory Centre, Worksop. Call 01909 484507 for more details.

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